Wests wife, Karen, was by his side when he died, the team said.
He also was a two-time NBA Executive of the Year in 1995 and 2004.
West joined the Lakers just as the team relocated from Minnesota for the 1960-61 season.
Jerry WestGetty Images; AP
It was one of many moments that inspired Wests other nickname: Mr.
He finally got a ring in 1972, when the Lakers beat the Knicks for the championship.
He became the Lakers coach for the 1976-77 season, two years after retiring as a player.
By all accounts, West disliked the role.
Im going to be working for Pat Riley, West said.
The teams intense rivalry with the Larry Bird-led Celtics became one of the most bitter and exciting in sports.
The move was controversial, and made Bryant the then youngest-ever player drafted, but West was certain.
When I was leaving Orlando, he brought me here and told me the truth.
I would have a young team and a guy named Kobe.
That guys going to be good, but in a couple of years, Youre going to have championships.
It wasnt no Get you this or Get you that.
Jerrys not that key in of guy.
(A seven-year, $120 million deal likely helped convince the big man, as well.)
West steered that club for several seasons before joining the Golden State Warriors front office.
Warriors owner Joe Lacob posted a lengthy tribute today.
“Jerry West was an incredible and unique individual, having accomplished immeasurable heights in the game of basketball.
West remained an executive with the team until his death.
Clippers owner Steve Ballmer also paid tribute on the teams X profile.
The duo would co-captain Team USA to a gold medal at the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome.
As a pro, West excelled in all facets of the game.
Tom Tapp contributed to this report.
